9 Small Bedroom Ideas to Make the Most Out of It

Creating a luxurious and functional haven in a small bedroom can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavour. Limited space doesn't mean compromising on style or comfort. In fact, it's an opportunity to get creative and maximise every inch of your intimate retreat!

In this article, we explore 9 small bedroom ideas that will help you make the most out of your space, turning it into a stylish and cosy sanctuary.

9 small bedroom ideas

Have a multi-purpose bedside table

Sometimes, you have to make sacrifices in a small bedroom - but a bedside table is not one of them! Instead of sacrificing this essential piece of furniture, you can turn it into a versatile and functional element that serves more than one purpose.

For example, transform your bedside table into a compact vanity station by adding a mirror, a small tray for makeup or grooming essentials, and a chair. This allows you to have a dedicated space for your morning and evening routines without the need for a separate vanity.

The dual-use bedside table next to the Adams Bed can help to save space in a small bedroom. Picture credits: @cherriepei.id

You can also consider a bedside table that can convert into a small desk for work or study. Some designs feature a fold-out or pull-out surface, providing a convenient workspace that can be easily tucked away when not in use.

Opt for a dual-purpose headboard

Instead of a traditional headboard that serves a purely decorative purpose, a dual-purpose headboard adds practical elements to enhance the overall utility of the space.

Choose a headboard that comes with floating bedside tables or storage. This additional storage space is perfect for keeping bedtime essentials, books, or decorative items within easy reach. This not only saves floor space but eliminates the need for extra furniture.

The Claude Performance Fabric Bed in @bria.via’s cosy bedroom features a floating bedside table and headrests. Also pictured: The Desi Wool Area Rug.

Be wise with storage

In a small bedroom, every inch of space matters. That’s why you should opt for furniture pieces that maximise storage fully.

Choose a bed frame with built-in drawers underneath. This provides a significant amount of hidden storage for items like clothing, shoes, or extra bedding.

The Dalton Storage Bed features deep drawers that can house extra bedding or clothes. Picture credits: @jessicaannereed

Consider investing in fitted or built-in wardrobes that are customised to the dimensions of your room. This maximises floor-to-ceiling space and offers ample storage for clothing, shoes, and accessories.

To save valuable floor space, consider wall-mounted shelves or cabinets above dressers or desks. This adds extra storage for items you want to keep out of sight while maintaining a clean and organised look in the room. You can even mount shelves above your bed to keep items in easy reach.

Don’t leave out the corners

Corners often go underutilised, but with strategic planning and furniture placement, they can become valuable storage and functional areas.

Corner shelves, wardrobes, or desks are great ways to make use of the dead space. They provide you with more storage and create a functional corner out of an otherwise wasted space.

You can also place small ottomans or armchairs in a corner to create a seating nook. This can serve as a quiet reading corner or a spot to relax, adding functionality and style to the bedroom.

@conniecyang turns the corner of her bedroom into a functional space for dressing up with the Kit Bouclé Stool and Miles Mirror.

Opt for sliding doors

Sliding doors are an excellent strategy in small bedrooms thanks to their space-saving design. Unlike swinging doors that require clearance for opening, sliding doors glide along a track, maximising the usable floor space in a small bedroom.

@albertd.photography and @sginteriorkj designed a built-in wardrobe with sliding doors. Pictured: The Dawson Bed.

Consider getting closets or built-in wardrobes with sliding doors. You can even install mirrors on these sliding doors to serve a dual purpose - providing access to the closet while acting as full-length mirrors.

Install hanging pendant lights or sconces

Instead of table lamps, consider hanging pendant lights or installing wall-mounted sconces. These lighting options eliminate the need for lamps and free up valuable surface space.

They also don’t take up any floor space, which is especially useful in small bedrooms where every piece of furniture should be chosen with functionality in mind.

@demiliodesign installs wall-mounted lamps beside the Adams Bed.

Opt for curves over straight lines

Opting for curves over straight lines in a small bedroom is a design strategy that can enhance the visual flow, create a sense of softness, and maximise the perception of space.

Curved furniture tends to have softer edges and contours. This can contribute to improved traffic flow within the bedroom, especially in tight spaces where sharp corners may obstruct movement.

The Crescent 2-drawer Bedside Table, Crescent Bed, and Cedric Table Lamp.

Consider a bed with a curved or upholstered headboard to soften the look of the bed while eliminating the harsh lines that can make a small bedroom feel confined. Other rounded pieces you can add to your bedroom include rounded bedside tables, circular ottomans, and even oval rugs.

Allow natural light in

In a small bedroom where space is limited, ample natural light can help counteract the potential for a cramped or confined atmosphere, creating a more airy and inviting environment.

@thebluewrenreno opts for sheer curtains in the bedroom to allow ample natural sunlight. Pictured: The Dawson Bed.

Use sheer curtains or blinds that allow natural light to filter through during the day. You can layer blackout curtains to ensure you still maintain privacy without blocking sunlight. Also, arrange furniture in a way that doesn't obstruct the windows and keep windowsills clear of objects.

Recommended read: How to Choose Curtains for Your Bedroom and Living Room

Place a mirror to reflect light

This is one of the oldest tricks in the book to create an illusion of a bigger space.

Place mirrors on walls opposite windows to reflect natural light and create the illusion of a larger, brighter space. You can also position mirrors near artificial light sources, such as lamps or ceiling fixtures, to amplify the impact of artificial lighting.

You can also position mirrors behind furniture pieces, such as a bed or bedside table, to create the illusion of depth and openness. This technique helps bounce light around the room.

@threebirdsrenovations places a mirror above the Dawson Bed to help bounce light around the room.

Transforming a small bedroom into a stylish and comfortable retreat is all about strategic planning and creativity. By implementing these ideas for your small bedroom, you can optimise your space, making it a haven that reflects your style and offers ultimate comfort.